Short Summary

In South Africa one of the most comprehensive military exercises ever undertaken by the country's Defence forces has begun.

Description

In South Africa one of the most comprehensive military exercises ever undertaken by the country's Defence forces has begun. The military operations come at a time when South Africa is facing renewed pressure from Angolan-based guerrillas in South West Africa (Namibia) and more stringent economic sanctions from the United Nations.

SYNOPSIS: A long convoy of trucks and other military vehicles, heading down the Krugersdorf-Pretoria highway in Transvaal to Potchefstroom, marked the start of Operation Quicksilver. Some 1,900 vehicles were involved, along with more than 5,000 men. Military exercises are regularly held in South Africa, but reports say this is the biggest ever.

Every South African must do at least two years military training and Operation Quicksilver has drawn mainly from civilian forces. In this massive display of military strength only the Navy is absent.

South Africa has of late been producing her own arms, because of the U.N. - imposed ban on arms sales. She used to get some military equipment from Israel, but reports say that supply line has dried up.

Operation Quicksilver is scheduled to last for 15 days - until May the 16th - giving the forces taking part ample chances to simulate numerous attack and defence situations.